A furry chicken? That’s the Silkie! This true bantam breed is one you’ll never forget once you see it. It’s hookless feathers give it the hairlike appearance, and also prevent it from flying. It can be bearded or not, but it always has a fifth toe, black eyes, and black skin. The breed is friendly and makes a great pet. Dominant breeds might bully them. They have a pronounced mothering instinct so can be broody. Their comb is either walnut or cushion.
- ColorBearded Black, Non-Bearded Black, Bearded Blue, Non-Bearded Blue, Bearded Buff, Non-Bearded Buff, Bearded Gray, Non-Bearded Gray, Bearded Partridge, Non-Bearded Partridge, Bearded Self Blue, Bearded Splash, Bearded White, Non-Bearded White
- Skin ColorBlack
- LifespanAbout 7 to 9 years
- Weight2 pounds
Origin
Silkies originated in Asia, either in China, Japan, or perhaps India.
Housing And Care
Housing for the Silkie is the same as all chickens need. A chicken coop or shed must provide safety, perches, nest boxes, room to move, be dry, and be ventilated but not drafty. It must contain accessories, such as water and food dispensers. Chickens also require an area for dust bathing, which could be in a run that is part of the coop, attached to the coop, or a fenced area adjacent to the coop.
Food is another basic necessity. Nutritious food is a must. Some chicken breeds also forage when given access to safe, fenced-in areas. Foraging is enjoyable and a fun activity for some breeds, but foraging can never take the place of nutritious chicken food. Supplements also help for different needs. We humbly suggest Booster Berries Enrich for egg laying support, Booster Berries Radiate for feather health, and Booster Berries Senior for older chickens.
Showing And Personality
The first Silkie was recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1874, the first year it published its Standard Of Perfection. It is a true bantam, with no large fowl sizes.
All chickens are individuals. Temperament, noise level, egg production, size, and other characteristics can vary. Chickens typically live 7 to 9 years.
Silkie Chicken Overview
Purpose: Ornamental and pet
Egg Production: Fair (about 100 eggs per year)
Egg Size & Color: Small, tinted or cream
Skin Color: Black
Size: Classified as bantam by the American Poultry Association; About 2 pounds
Temperament: Gentle, calm, and good as pets
Noise Level: Quiet
Climate Needs: Best in cooler climates
Origin: Feather Leg
Recognized Varieties: Bearded Black, Non-Bearded Black, Bearded Blue, Non-Bearded Blue, Bearded Buff, Non-Bearded Buff, Bearded Gray, Non-Bearded Gray, Bearded Partridge, Non-Bearded Partridge, Bearded Self Blue, Bearded Splash, Bearded White, Non-Bearded White
